📅 Key Dates & Timeline
Plan your preparation 6-12 months in advance
Annual ACER Scholarship Calendar
| Period |
What Happens |
| September – October |
Applications open at most schools. Check each school’s website individually. |
| October – January |
Preparation window. Aim to complete Study Skills + all mock exams. |
| Late January – Early February |
Application closing dates. SA schools close earliest (~Jan). |
| First Saturday in February |
SA schools test date. Check ACER website for exact year date. |
| Last Saturday in February |
All other states test date. Check ACER website for exact year date. |
| 4-8 weeks after exam |
Results released to schools. Successful candidates contacted for interview stage. |
⚠️ Watch Out: Dates vary slightly year to year. Always verify closing dates directly with each target school. The test dates above are the standard national pattern but can shift in election years or unusual circumstances.
⏰ Optimal Preparation Timeline
📊 Recommended Weeks Allocation (24-week program)
Getting Started + Guide
8%
Study Skills (14 lessons)
16%
💡 If you have less than 24 weeks: Prioritise in this order: (1) Study Skills Writing lessons, (2) Study Skills Humanities, (3) Mock Exam 1 + full review, (4) Study Skills Maths, (5) Remaining mocks.
